I am writing to bring your attention to House Bill 4608, a crucial piece of legislation that has the potential to significantly impact healthcare in Michigan.  HB 4608 was introduced following extensive stakeholder engagement, and it successfully progressed through the House of Representatives with bipartisan support.  On February 28, 2024, HB4608 progressed out of the Senate Health Policy Committee, without amendments and with bipartisan support.

As your constituent, I urge you to vote "Yes" on HB 4608, a bill designed to license dietitian nutritionists to practice medical nutrition therapy in Michigan. Our state is currently one of only two states without legal recognition of medical nutrition therapy or the practice of dietetics and nutrition.

Key points in support of HB 4608:

1. Enhanced Patient Access to Affordable Medical Nutrition Therapy: This bill positions medical nutrition therapy as a critical component of healthcare in Michigan, reducing barriers for patient access to affordable medical nutrition therapy.
2. Reduction in Healthcare Costs: By increasing access to medical nutrition therapy, HB 4608 is expected to reduce healthcare costs for numerous diseases and conditions. Licensure enables health insurers to identify and credential qualified practitioners, granting access to nutrition coverage that is currently inaccessible while promoting retention of skilled professionals.
3. Hospital Cost Savings: Implementation of HB 4608 will save Michigan hospitals an estimated $14.5 million per year by facilitating the direct ordering of therapeutic diets for patients by competent nutrition professionals.
4. Public Protection: The bill ensures that Michiganders receive treatment from qualified nutrition professionals overseen and licensed by LARA, providing evidence-based medical nutrition therapy and protecting the public.

It is crucial to note that HB 4608 does not prevent unlicensed individuals from providing non-medical nutrition services. Personal trainers, weight loss programs, health food/supplement stores, holistic practitioners, and others in the nutrition industry can continue their work, advising on healthy eating and providing individualized non-medical nutrition care.

Licensure of dietitian nutritionists is poised to save significant healthcare dollars, ensure public access to qualified practitioners, and support the growth of nutrition practices in Michigan. I strongly urge you to support HB 4608 for the benefit of our community's health and well-being.

Thank you for your attention to this matter, and I appreciate your commitment to the health of Michigan residents.